Little Italy

Little Italy features a plethora of restaurants, bars and lounges. The original architecture, mostly six story walk-ups, as well as narrow cobble stone streets, still grace the area.

In the second half of the 19th century, New York City's Italian immigration reached its peak; with several Italian parishes and an Italian-language newspaper. Landmarks include Old St. Patrick's Church and the Police Building. It's a popular neighborhood, filled with old world atmosphere and many excellent eateries. Today, Little Italy New York is often considered more of an East Soho and has been somewhat encroached upon by its booming neighbor, Chinatown. The area is an eclectic blend of young and trend-setting artists and well-to-do professionals.

NoLita

The neighborhood known as NoLita, or North of Little Italy, seemed quaint, a living postcard of narrow streets, mom-and-pop stores, and reasonable rent. Then, during the mid-1990s, many designer refugees from celebrity-clogged, high-rent SoHo and TriBeCa turned tiny pizzerias and shoe repair shops into stores to purvey their innovative creations. Now Nolita is a hip quarter, known for a number of chic bars and boutiques.